After multiple delays that pushed back the original release date, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is now set to launch on March 20, 2025. The game marks a significant departure for the series with its feudal Japan setting and dual-protagonist system, but questions remain about whether the delays signal potential issues.
Recent gameplay footage showcasing a 20-minute castle infiltration sequence has revealed much about what players can expect. The footage demonstrates the distinct playstyles of the game’s two main characters: Naoe, a stealth-focused shinobi, and Yasuke, a combat-oriented samurai inspired by the historical African warrior who served under Oda Nobunaga.
The technical specifications have also been detailed, with Ubisoft confirming the game will run at up to 2160p resolution and 60 frames per second on PlayStation 5. PS5 Pro owners will benefit from enhanced ray tracing features that extend throughout the game world, including reflective surfaces.
Setting and Characters
Set during Japan’s Sengoku period in the 16th century, the game follows the intertwining stories of its two protagonists against the backdrop of Japan’s unification under Oda Nobunaga. Players will explore several historical Japanese provinces including Iga and Omi in what Ubisoft claims is one of their most visually ambitious open worlds to date.
According to Creative Director Jonathan Dumont, the main campaign offers 30-40 hours of gameplay, with an additional 80 hours of side content available. This makes Shadows one of the most content-rich entries in the series.
Gameplay Features
The castle gameplay demonstration highlights several new mechanics. Players can no longer rely on bird companions for scouting as in recent titles. Instead, they must use the new “Observe” mechanic, which allows them to focus on and tag enemies or objectives.
The game introduces a seasonal cycle that affects gameplay in meaningful ways. Winter snow muffles footsteps but can also crunch audibly and alert enemies. Summer provides more vegetation for hiding. These environmental changes require players to adapt their strategies throughout the game.
Another significant addition is the buildable shinobi hideout, which serves as a base of operations and includes features like a forge for weapon upgrades. Players can also recruit allies who provide assistance during missions, each with unique abilities like poison specialists or brawlers who can distract or neutralize enemies.
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Technical Performance
PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro owners have access to three graphics modes:
- Performance Mode: 2160p (upscaled) at 60 FPS
- Fidelity Mode: 2160p (upscaled) at 30 FPS with enhanced ray tracing
- Balanced Mode: 2160p (upscaled) at 40 FPS (requires a 120/240Hz display with HDMI 2.1)
The PS5 Pro version offers improved ray tracing compared to the base model. In Fidelity and Balanced modes, PS5 Pro supports “extended” ray tracing, which includes both global illumination for diffuse lighting and reflective surfaces throughout the game world.
Pre-order Bonuses and Editions
Those who pre-order will receive the “Thrown to the Dogs” bonus quest and access to the “Claws of Awaji” expansion that’s planned for release later in 2025. The expansion reportedly adds over 10 hours of additional content.
Multiple editions are available:
- Standard Edition ($69.99)
- Digital Deluxe Edition ($89.99) with extra cosmetic packs
- Collector’s Edition ($280) exclusive to GameStop, featuring a dual-character statue, steelbook, and artbook
Ubisoft+ Premium subscribers will receive the Ultimate Edition on launch day.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Mac, and Amazon Luna, with no support for previous generation consoles.